Nigeria and Egypt have stated their readiness to collaborate against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in both countries, with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on improved intelligence sharing, joint operations and training underway.

The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa (rtd.), told the Egyptian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mohammed Fouad, who paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja, that the longstanding cordial relationship between both countries provides a solid foundation for enhanced cooperation against the growing global menace of drug abuse.

Ambassador Fouad said he came to discuss joint efforts to combat illicit drug trafficking and to better understand the NDLEA’s priorities, as well as how cooperation with Egypt can support the agency’s outstanding work in Nigeria.

He stressed the need for a stronger bilateral cooperation against the growing illicit drug trafficking across Africa, noting that “Egypt and Nigeria, as two of Africa’s leading nations, should strengthen bilateral cooperation in this area. Together, we can address the challenge of combating narcotics from a continental perspective because it is affecting societies across Africa.”

Disclosing Nigeria’s readiness for the partnership, Marwa described the drug problem as “a global challenge,” stating, “no country is untouched. The drug menace is everywhere in the world, and that is why collaboration is essential.”

He noted that the NDLEA already works closely with several international law enforcement agencies, including those of the United States (U.S.). Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Bureau; the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA), and the UK Home Office International Operations; French Police, German Criminal Police, and India’s Narcotics Control Bureau, among others.

Expressing excitement at the planned MoU, Marwa explained that due to the increasing pressure from law enforcement agencies worldwide, drug cartels are seeking alternative routes in Africa. We have to remain united and push them out of our continent.”

He highlighted the NDLEA’s recent successes against international drug syndicates from Mexico, stating, “About two months ago, we dismantled a methamphetamine laboratory worth about $362 million.

“The laboratory was being operated by Mexican nationals deep inside a forest in Nigeria. We have also dismantled another meth lab run by other Mexicans in a different state.

“I am delighted that Nigeria and Egypt have been working on an MoU to strengthen cooperation in this critical area. It will pave the way for more institutionalised collaboration between our agencies in the fight against narcotics.”